Donnell Augustus Mann, Sr. was born on February 13, 1946, in Norfolk, VA, to the late Bertha Lee Mann. Donnell, who was affectionately called “Yock”, transitioned from this life on February 1, 2025, at Sentara Leigh Hospital. Donnell’s early education, during his early years, was both in Norfolk, BA, and New York. He moved back to Norfolk permanently, where he lived with his mother and his sister, Vera. Donnell attended Booker T. Washington High as a teenager, where he played recreational football under Coach Samuel Allen. Coach Samuel Allen was a Nego League baseball player for the Kansas City Monarchs. He coached an undefeated football team for many years. Donnell was a fantastic wide receiver and a powerful tight end. After leaving Booker T. Washington, Yock joined the United States Marine Corps. He served from 1964 to 1968; during those years, he also served in the Vietnam War. Donnell was honorably discharged as a Sargeant with several medals of honor, including the Presidential Unit Citation.
After leaving the Marine Corps, Donnell A. Mann, Sr. worked at Norfolk Naval Base as a Wharf Builder. He retired from the Naval Base after 20 years of service.
Donnell met the love of his entire life, Eloise Claudette (Parker) Mann, and they were married on February 13, 1977. They created new life having three beautiful babies, Donnell A. Mann, Jr., Saudi A. Mann-Washington, and Jamal A. Mann, who are now three amazing young adults. He leaves to mourn him, his three children; seven grandchildren, Jamalia, Gafelia, Hassan, Amor, Jamal Jr., Landis, Daylen and Ahmad; one niece, Michelle Bryant; two nephews, Dexter Jr. and Paul, along with three great-grandchildren. He also leaves his sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, cousins, and friends to mourn our loss.
Condolences(6)-
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Previous Mae Lillie Davis
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Charlie Toe says
February 6, 2025 at 2:24 pmMy sincere condolences to the family. Yock was the first from around our way that went to Vietnam. Lots of war stories told by Yock and Bird(RIP). Oorah!
Lina Brown says
February 8, 2025 at 11:00 amSending prayers for the Love ones and friends. When we were young we had a cool group of friends and man he could talk junk like nobody’s business! Thanks for those times my friend! RIP!
ANN ELLIOTT says
February 9, 2025 at 2:25 pmRest My Buddiee, miss u you no more pain. LOVE
ANN ELLIOTT says
February 9, 2025 at 2:36 pmPRAYERS for you Donnell Jr you were there for your father everyday. I know he was very proud of you.
AMOR MANN says
February 10, 2025 at 11:17 amLOVE YOU GRANDAD YOU WAS SO STRONG, SAVE SOME SPACE FOR ME OLD MAN
Rev. Dr. James Edwards, lll says
February 14, 2025 at 10:46 amDonnell and my sister , Regina , were childhood friends having grown up in the same community and attending the same schools.
Rev. Dr. James ” Screwball ” Edwards , lll
Retired Pastor /Huntersville Boy